Shuklapantha National Park
6 Day(s)
Yartung Festival Muktinath Trek
9 Day(s)
Yartung Festival Muktinath Trek Trip Overview Introduction for Yartung Festival Muktinath Trek The Yartung Festival and Muktinath Trek offer a unique combination of cultural celebration and breathtaking adventure in the Mustang region of Nepal. This overview provides insights into these two remarkable experiences and their highlights. Yartung Festival: The Yartung Festival is an annual celebration held by the Tibetan community in Nepal, particularly in the Mustang region. This vibrant event, usually observed in August or September, marks the end of the harvest season and holds significant cultural and spiritual importance. Horse Races and Cultural Activities: During the Yartung Festival, the…
Yartung Festival Muktinath Trek Trip Overview
Introduction for Yartung Festival Muktinath Trek
The Yartung Festival and Muktinath Trek offer a unique combination of cultural celebration and breathtaking adventure in the Mustang region of Nepal. This overview provides insights into these two remarkable experiences and their highlights.
Yartung Festival:
The Yartung Festival is an annual celebration held by the Tibetan community in Nepal, particularly in the Mustang region. This vibrant event, usually observed in August or September, marks the end of the harvest season and holds significant cultural and spiritual importance.
Horse Races and Cultural Activities:
During the Yartung Festival, the Mustang region comes alive with horse races that showcase the traditional horsemanship skills of the locals. Spectators can witness exhilarating races while enjoying the festive atmosphere. Additionally, cultural activities such as traditional music, dance performances, and colorful costumes add to the cultural richness of the festival.
Muktinath Trek:
The Muktinath Trek is a popular trekking route that leads to the sacred Muktinath Temple, nestled at an altitude of 3,710 meters in the Mustang region. This trekking experience offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and spiritual significance.
Starting Point and Scenic Views:
The trek typically commences from Jomsom, a picturesque town accessible by a short flight from Pokhara. From Jomsom, trekkers embark on a journey through diverse landscapes, including lush valleys and arid terrains. Along the way, they are treated to awe-inspiring views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
Cultural Heritage and Muktinath Temple:
As trekkers traverse the trail, they encounter traditional villages and monasteries that provide insights into the local lifestyle and culture of the Mustang region. The ultimate destination is the revered Muktinath Temple, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Pilgrims visit the temple to seek spiritual liberation or “Moksha.”
Tips for the Yartung Festival and Muktinath Trek
To make the most of your Trek trip, consider the following tips:
- Plan ahead, especially if you wish to coincide your visit with the Yartung Festival.
- Check weather conditions and pack appropriate gear for varying temperatures.
- Ensure proper acclimatization to high altitudes during the trek.
- Hiring a local guide or joining a trekking group enhances safety and cultural understanding.
- Respect local customs and minimize your impact on the environment.
Conclusion for Yartung Festival Muktinath Trek
The Yartung Festival Muktinath Trek trip provides an incredible opportunity to witness the cultural vibrancy of the Mustang region while embarking on a memorable trekking adventure. From the exhilarating horse races and cultural activities of this Festival to the breathtaking landscapes and spiritual significance of this Trek, this journey offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty.
Trip Highlights
- A challenging trekking through arid desert canyons to the walled city of Lo Manthang,
- a pocket of lost Tibet that boasts spectacular ancients Buddhist monasteries such as Ghar Gompa, Jampa Gompa, Namgyal Gompa,
- walled villages and remote caves shrines such as Chungsi cave, Dzong Cave,
- spectacular views of high Himalayan range,
- scenic mountain flight in and out of Jomsom and Pokhara,
- meeting local Loba people and their traditional Tibetan culture,
- passing several Buddhist monuments,
- explore the formar Himalayan kingdom of Upper Mustang and its beautiful landscapes.
- Jomsom (2,720m / 8,915ft) – the headquarter town of Mustang District
- Spectacular views of Mt. Annapurna (8,091), Thorung Peak, Nilgiri (7,061m), Chulu West, Chulu East, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV
- Yak pastures, magnificent lakes, glaciers, gorges, and waterfalls
- Muktinath – a holy site for both Hindus and Buddhists
- Mustang district and a chance to interact with its people
- Lo Manthang – the capital of the ancient kingdom of Mustang
- Ancient Buddhist monasteries
- Insight into the Tibetan lifestyle
- A day at the tourist hub – Pokhara
Itinerary
The trip begins with your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Our company representative Everest Expeditions Nepal will welcome you at the airport from where you will be transferred to the hotel. Overnight at a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.
The company will make all arrangements for the trek and get your trekking permits as you would be traveling to the restricted area of Lo-Manthang. In the afternoon, you take a scenic flight to Pokhara. On your 25 minutes flight to Pokhara, you get an aerial view of the beautiful lakes, the green forests, and also the snowy mountains. Feel free to enjoy your evening by the lakeside in the City of Lakes. Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Pokhara.
After an early morning breakfast, you take a 25 minutes flight above the exciting landscapes to Jomsom. Flying through the gorge of Kali Gandaki, you arrive in the windy town of Jomsom. Following the gradual path to Kali Gandaki riverbed, you make your way to Kagbeni. It will be a 3-4 hour trek to Kagbeni which is the gateway to Upper Mustang. Overnight at lodge in Kagbeni.
On the fourth day, you trek along the eastern bank of Kali Gandaki and head north. You can visit Gompa Kang and some caves on the western side of the river, on your way to Chele. First you reach Tangbe village, then you reach Chhusang, and finally, you trek ahead on to the small ridges to arrive in Chele. Overnight at lodge in Chele.
It will initially be a steep walk through the hills. This will be a 6-7 hours trek where you pass through the farming fields with rice and buckwheat. You visit Rachung Cave on the way. Accompanied by the amazing view of mountain peaks like Nilgiri (7061m), Annapurna (8091m), and Tilicho (7134m), you cross four passes before you arrive in Syangboche. Overnight at lodge in Syangboche.
Today’s trek will take around 5-6 hours. You make a short and steep descent and cross a small river. Climbing across Nyi La Pass (4010m) and Ghami La Pass (3765m), you arrive in Dhami from where you walk through the longest Mani wall in Mustang. Climb up a ridge and cross a valley along some meadows to arrive in Drakmar. Overnight at lodge in Drakmar.
After breakfast, you trek to the most awaited destination of this trek, the walled capital of Lo-Manthang. The trek starts downhill to the canyon. Trekking uphill to Lo La Pass (3950m), you arrive in the deserted town of Lo-Manthang. You will get a view of many mountain peaks including Bhrikuti Peak (6460m). Overnight at lodge in Lo-Manthang.
Today is the first day of the Tiji Festival. There is going to be a huge celebration in Lo-Manthang. The festival starts with unrolling a three-storied Thanka painted with images of Padma Sambhava or Guru Rimpoche. You spend the day by observing the local dances and celebrations. The people are going to be there in their traditional dresses. You will see the women in traditional jewelry, Buddhist monks in robes and experience a completely different cultural atmosphere. A masked dance starts showcasing the mythical stories of Tiji festival. As the dance ends, Dorje Jono, an incarnation of Lord Buddha, kills the demon and relives the plague and brings harmony to the region. Overnight at lodge in Lo-Manthang.
On the second day of the festival, you enjoy the dances of the Tibetan Lamas. The purpose of this dance is to chase away the hunger and evil spirits in the region. A combination of costumes, masks, 12-foot horns, butter cakes, yaks, pigeons, dogs, and several other native aspects makes this festival a treat to watch. Overnight at lodge in Lo-Manthang.
Today is the final day of the Tiji festival. You walk to Namgyal Gompa: a monastery on the top of the hill. It is an important place as it also serves as the court for the local community. In the evening, you return back to the village for the festival. The evil remains of the demons are destroyed on the final day. The demons are set out on the old tiger skin and are attacked by bow and arrows, old guns, and catapult. Overnight at lodge in Lo-Manthang.
After breakfast, you leave the beautiful town of Lo-Manthang and head for Tsarang. This trek will take around 3-4 hours. The trail initially ascends and then descends after crossing a river. The village of Tsarang is situated at the top of the Tsarang Chu Canyon. You will visit a white Dzong and red Gompa which are the major attractions of the village. Overnight at lodge in Tsarang.
You leave Tsarang and follow the trail to the small settlement of Syangboche. During this trek, you first climb up a ridge, descend to Akiama, and then follow the trail to Tama Gaon (3710m). Descending from here alongside barley fields and small streams, you arrive in Syangboche. Overnight at lodge in Syangboche.
Today, you follow Syangboche Khola for the first half and Mustang Khola for the second half to reach Chhusang from Syangboche. It will take around 5-6 hours. On your way to Chhusang, you can also visit Chungsi Cave situated on the bank of Syangboche Khola. Then, walking through the riverbed with a wonderful view of the mountains, you arrive in Chhusang for the overnight stay. Overnight at lodge in Chhusang.
You begin your trek early in the morning. Walking on the riverbed of Kali Gandaki River, you arrive in Kagbeni, where you stop for lunch. Then you will leave the Upper Mustang trail and retrace the route to Jomsom, the starting point of the trek. This will be your last day in the Nepalese dessert. Overnight at lodge in Jomsom.
Fly to Pokhara from Jomsom via the Kali Gandaki gorge. Enjoy your afternoon at the lakeside in Pokhara or you may take part in the adventure activities in the lake city like boating and cycling. In the evening, you can visit the local bars and pubs which are very famous in the lakeside area. Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Pokhara.
You still have plenty of time to enjoy in Pokhara. You can visit the Phewa Lake and World Peace Pagoda which are the major tourist attractions in Pokhara. Alternatively, you can visit the hilltop of Sarangkot for the sunrise view. In the afternoon, you take the flight back to Kathmandu. Overnight at a 3 or 4-star hotel in Kathmandu.
The 17 days trip comes to an end. After a fulfilling breakfast, our company representative Everest Expeditions Nepal will drop you at the airport from where you take the flight back home.
What's Included
1. Airport Pick-up and Drop Off,
2. Licensed and trained trekking guides,
3. potters for carrying goods and supplies,
4. Meal on full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea & coffee) basis during the trek
5. 3 Nights Accommodation in the 3/4/5 Star Hotel in Kathmandu with B & B. (Bed
& Breakfast) & Other Destination Based on Trekking Area.
6. All accommodation during the trek.
7. All meals and hot beverages during the trek.
8. Transportation to and from trail head.
9. All necessary documents and permits for trekking (where applicable)
10. National Park/Conservation Area entry Permit, Insurance, and equipment for the staffs.
11. Coordination of quick Rescue service (Costs covered by your Insurance Plan)
12. Trekking staffs wages etc.
13. 1 hr. trekker massage after your trek.
14. Welcome and Fare well dinner in a Nepali Cultural Dance restaurant in Kathmandu.
15. Trekking Duffle Bag
16. Trekking Staff Insurance of $10,000 Per Person.
17. Trekking Map, T-shirt, and Trekking certificate.
18. Exclusive of Medical Kit Bag
19. All Government and local Taxes
20. International Flight ticket re-confirmation.
21. Meals will be Start when your Trek starts.
What's Excluded
1. International Airfares,
2. Travel/Trekking Insurance,
3. Excess baggage charges More than 16kg and hand bag more than 5 kg in
domestic flights.
4. Visa fees.
5. Airport Departure Taxes.
6. Drinks (Cold and Alcoholic) Rescue charge.
7. Tips for The staffs.
8. Expenses of Personnel nature and Permit and Liaison officer fee (where Applicable.
9. Meals during stay in the Kathmandu and Pokhara.
10. Domestic Ticket Etc.
11. Extra Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Trip Information
The Yartung festival and Muktinath Trek are both fascinating aspects of Nepalese culture and adventure tourism. Here’s some information about each:
- Yartung Festival:
- Yartung is a traditional festival celebrated by the Tibetan community in Nepal, especially in the Mustang region.
- The festival typically takes place in August or September, depending on the lunar calendar.
- It is a vibrant event featuring horse races, traditional music and dance performances, and various cultural activities.
- The festival is held to mark the end of the harvest season and is also considered a time for prayers and offerings.
- Locals and tourists alike can participate in the festivities and witness the unique Tibetan cultural heritage.
- Muktinath Trek:
- The Muktinath Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal, leading to the sacred Muktinath Temple, situated at an altitude of 3,710 meters in the Mustang region.
- The trek usually starts from Jomsom, which can be reached by a short flight from Pokhara.
- The journey offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, as well as diverse landscapes ranging from lush valleys to arid landscapes.
- The Muktinath Temple is a significant pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, believed to provide spiritual liberation or “Moksha.”
- Along the trek, you’ll encounter traditional villages, monasteries, and experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the local people.
Tips for the Yartung Festival and Muktinath Trek:
- Plan your trip well in advance, especially if you want to coincide your visit with the Yartung Festival.
- Make sure to check the weather conditions and prepare accordingly, as the Mustang region can be quite cold and windy, even during the trekking season.
- Acclimatization is crucial, as you’ll be trekking at high altitudes. Take it slow, stay hydrated, and listen to your body.
- Hiring a local guide or joining a trekking group is recommended for safety, navigation, and cultural insights.
- Pack appropriate trekking gear, including sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing, a good sleeping bag, and other essentials.
- Carry some local currency as ATM facilities may be limited during the trek.
- Respect the local culture and customs, and be mindful of the fragile environment. Leave no trace behind and follow responsible trekking practices.
Please note that the information provided here is based on general knowledge, and it’s always recommended to consult with local tour operators or travel agencies for the most up-to-date and detailed information about the Yartung Festival and Muktinath Trek.
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